Canadian Sommelier, On-Air (TV, radio) Wine & Spirits Somm, Valpolicella Wine Specialist
Tenuta delle Ripalte is a stunning Mediterranean resort and winery located on Elba Island, off the coast of Tuscany, north of Rome and south of Florence. Nestled within the rugged landscapes of the island’s southeastern coast, the estate is part of a sprawling 450-hectare private nature reserve, offering breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and their 16 hectares of rolling vineyards.
Ottawa, ON November 2020 Matt's review: A blend of 37% Sangiovese, 32% Merlot, and 31% Cabernet Sauvignon from Ruffino's Poggio Casciano Estate, near the renowned Tuscan city of Florence. 2017 Modus shows juicy layers of dark fruits, plum, blackcurrant, mocha, sweet spices, cigar box, and leather. Inky with fine tannins, this bold and balanced Tuscan... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON November 2020 Matt's review: Romitorio di Santedame is Ruffino's new high-end single vineyard Gran Selezione from the Santedame Estate in Castellina Chianti. A blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Colorino, from the heart of Chianti Classico, between the region's twin capitals of Florence and Siena, this Gran Selezione was accorded the quality distinction... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON October 2020 Matt's review: Produced from 100% Sangiovese grapes sourced from Tuscan's Montecucco DOCG, it shows sweet dried cherry, plum, dark chocolate and fragrant Cypress (balsamic) notes reminiscent of the tall Tuscan Cypress trees that line vineyard roads throughout this beautiful region. Vibrant cherry and sweet herbs, there's a plushness to this wine,... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON July 2020 Matt's review: This golden yellow Vermentino showcases the great value-priced white wines being produced in Tuscany's Montecucco DOC. A fantastic option for those that enjoy fine Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, this full-bodied Vermentino shows a complex aromatic profile with exotic fruit, wildflower honey, baked bread, sweet grass, green almond, and... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON November 2018 Today on CTV Morning Live, we're talking winter wines, otherwise stated, wines that complement the season...wines that are suited for entertaining, enjoying with comfort food, and enjoying this holiday season and throughout the winter. Check out the video link here! With the holiday season quickly approaching, and lots of fresh snow... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON September 2018 Matt's review: Ruffino's Riserva Ducale Oro is produced only in the best vintages, a tradition started in 1947 to showcase the finest fruit from Ruffino's acclaimed vineyards. The 2014 sourced fruit from Ruffino's Gretole, Santedame, and Casavecchia di Cagnano estates in the renowned Castellina subregion of Chianti Classico. Savoury, structured, and delicious,... Continue Reading →
CTV Ottawa Morning Live June 15th, 2018 Theme: Finding the perfect gift for Father’s Day Today on CTV Morning Live, CTV's Trisha Owens and Sommelier Matt Steeves showcased fantastic gift ideas for Father’s Day. Check out the CTV video here. With Father’s Day fast approaching, now’s the time to find that perfect gift that Dad... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON January 2018 Matt's review: Il Ducale combines some of the favourite characteristics of Tuscan wines in one affordable bottle for all to enjoy. A blend of 45% Sangiovese, 40% Merlot, and 15% Syrah, it's packed with delicious array of aromas and flavours including dark plum, blackberry, black currant, tea, pepper, clove, and underbrush. Generous... Continue Reading →
By Matt Steeves I recently enjoyed a structured tasting of Ruffino wines led by the knowledgable and charismatic Beppe d'Andrea, Ruffino's Global Brand Ambassador, at the ever impressive Social Restaurant in the Byward Market in Ottawa, Ontario. Beppe d'Andrea, a certified AIS Professional Sommelier, and experienced winemaker, cellar master, viticulturist, and chef, has led a... Continue Reading →
Quercus Vino 